Behind Liu Beis Mourning after the Abdication of Emperor Xian of Han

In the history of China, the late Eastern Han Dynasty was a period of political turmoil. Emperor Xian of Han, as the last emperor of the Han Dynasty, presided over a time when the country was fragmented and warlords vied for power. Against this backdrop, Emperor Xian chose to abdicate and yielded the throne to Cao Pi, the son of Cao Cao, establishing the Kingdom of Wei. However, after Emperor Xian's abdication, there were no reports of his death, so why did Liu Bei mourn him? This article will explore the reasons behind this.

Firstly, it is essential to understand the social background of that time. Although Emperor Xian had abdicated, his abdication was not voluntary; it was forced by Cao Pi. In this situation, Emperor Xian's life was not secure. Therefore, Liu Bei mourned Emperor Xian, partly to express his respect and condolences for the emperor, and partly to use this opportunity to promote his political ideals and orthodox status.

Secondly, as a descendant of the Han royal family, Liu Bei had the responsibility to uphold the dignity and interests of the Han Dynasty. With Emperor Xian being forced to abdicate, Liu Bei naturally stood on the side of the Han Dynasty and spoke out for Emperor Xian. By mourning Emperor Xian, Liu Bei demonstrated his loyalty and support for the Han Dynasty to the world, while also implying the illegality of the Cao Wei regime.

Furthermore, Liu Bei's mourning had strategic considerations. In the political landscape of that time, Liu Bei stood alongside the Cao Wei and Eastern Wu kingdoms in a triangular power struggle. To consolidate his position and influence, Liu Bei needed to use the name of the Han Dynasty to enhance his legitimacy. By mourning Emperor Xian, Liu Bei showed the world that he was the legitimate heir of the Han Dynasty, thus strengthening his political influence.

Lastly, Liu Bei mourned Emperor Xian to inspire his troops' morale. In the process of the Three Kingdoms rivalry, morale was crucial to victory in war. By mourning Emperor Xian, Liu Bei could inspire his troops' loyalty and belief in the Han Dynasty, thereby enhancing their combat effectiveness. At the same time, this also helped unite internal forces to jointly resist external enemies.

In conclusion, Liu Bei mourned Emperor Xian for multiple reasons. These included expressing respect and condolences for Emperor Xian, upholding the interests of the Han Dynasty, enhancing his political position, and inspiring troops' morale. This event fully demonstrated Liu Bei's wisdom and strategy in the complex political situation.

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